WESTPORT—Westport Emergency Management urges residents to prepare for a prolonged period of dangerous heat and humidity. An Extreme Heat Watch is expected from Tuesday, June 30, through at least Sunday, July 5, 2026. Governor Ned Lamont has activated Connecticut’s Extreme Hot Weather Protocol for those dates. Westport Emergency Management suggests that now is the time to prepare by identifying a nearby cooling center and making plans to assist family members, neighbors, and others who may be especially vulnerable to extreme heat.

Heat index values—the “feels like” temperature that combines heat and humidity—are forecast to reach the upper 90s Wednesday and between 100 and 110 degrees Thursday and Friday, with dangerously hot conditions expected to continue through the Independence Day weekend. Overnight temperatures will remain in the upper 70s and lower 80s, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses by limiting the body’s ability to recover.

“This prolonged stretch of dangerous heat poses a significant risk, particularly for older adults, young children, individuals with chronic medical conditions, and anyone without access to air conditioning,” said Chief Nicholas Marsan, Westport’s Emergency Management Director. “We encourage residents to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day, check on family members and neighbors, and take advantage of the Town’s cooling centers if needed.”

With the Independence Day holiday approaching, anyone planning outdoor celebrations should stay hydrated, seek shade whenever possible, and know the location of the nearest cooling center if relief from the heat is needed.

WESTPORT COOLING CENTERS

Residents seeking relief from the heat may visit the following locations during normal operating hours:

Center for Senior Activities
21 Imperial Avenue
Monday–Thursday: 8:30 AM–4:30 PM
Closed Friday (July 3) in observance of Independence Day

The Westport Library
20 Jesup Road
Monday–Thursday: 9:00 AM–9:00 PM
Closed Friday (July 3) and Saturday (July 4) in observance of Independence Day
Sunday: 1:00 PM–5:00 PM

Westport Weston Family YMCA
14 Allen Raymond Lane
Monday–Friday: 5:30 AM–9:00 PM
Saturday: 8:00 AM–1:00 PM (Indoors); 10:00 AM–4:00 PM (Outdoors)
Sunday: 7:00 AM–6:00 PM

Residents needing transportation to a cooling center or additional assistance should call 2-1-1 or visit www.211ct.org.

Please note that some cooling center hours may be affected by the Independence Day holiday. Call ahead or visit each facility’s website to confirm holiday hours before traveling.

HEAT SAFETY TIPS

Westport Emergency Management encourages residents to:

• Stay in air-conditioned buildings whenever possible.
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty.
• Avoid strenuous outdoor activities between noon and 6:00 PM, when temperatures will be at their highest.
• Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• Take frequent breaks if working outdoors.
• Never leave children, older adults, or pets inside parked vehicles.
• Check on elderly neighbors, relatives, and anyone who may be vulnerable to extreme heat.

WHO IS MOST AT RISK

Those most vulnerable to heat-related illness include:

• Adults age 65 and older
• Infants and young children
• People with heart disease, respiratory illness, or other chronic medical conditions
• Individuals taking medications that affect the body’s ability to regulate temperature
• Outdoor workers and athletes
• Anyone without access to air conditioning

Residents should monitor National Weather Service forecasts and official Town of Westport communication channels for updates throughout the week. Emergency notifications are also available by texting 06880 to 888777 to subscribe to Westport’s emergency alert system.